David Hardstaff

Information about the specialist

Practice Areas

David is a partner in BCL’s serious and general crime department, specialising in criminal litigation, professional discipline and regulatory law, and controlled drug licensing. He has particular experience representing individuals accused of sexual offences, drugs offences, and offences involving violence. He is an experienced police station representative and advocate, representing clients in a broad range of proceedings at the Magistrates’ Court, Crown Court, and Court of Appeal.

David regularly acts for professionals and high-profile individuals, and has a reassuring appreciation of the pressures and strains that clients face when subject to investigation. He also advises witnesses, corporates, and broadcasters involved in criminal proceedings in relation to reputation management and public relations.

In addition to his criminal practice, David advises companies and institutions in relation to applications to the Home Office for controlled drug licences, particularly in the context of research into cannabis and psychedelics. He has advised companies entering cannabis markets on due diligence, criminal liability, and proceeds of crime considerations.